How was value determined:

1. The regional value for water recreation-fish and wildlife habitat was transferred from 12 peer-reviewed studies of various recreational activities and environmental amenitites (including wildlife habitat) in various locales (Bowker et al 1996; Danielson et al 1995; Kelch et al 2006; Adamowicz et al 1994; Englin et al 1997; Sellar et al 1985; Shafer et al 2000; Ralston et al 1991; Richards et al 1990; Sorg and Loomis 1986; Sutherland 1982).
2. These values were combined and adjusted to obtain an overall per trip value estimate.
3. This per trip value estimate was multiplied by Michigan boating usage data (number of boat days) and then divided by the acres of surface water in the West Michigan policy region (Stynes et al 1995).

Value estimate limitations:

1. The values represent recreation activities related only to river and lakes.
2. Rivers provide a significant ecological value for sport fishing. Lakes provide high economic values for recreational activities, especially for power boating.
3. Water quality and quanity (e.g., flow and lake stage levels) are important for factors that affect recreational and habitat values. The values reported here did not account for this.